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Dear advisor,

Would it damage an automatic car if it is pushed about 2 metres either forward or backwards? Would shifting the auto transmission to neutral, without starting the engine, damage the transmission?

Also, is a mineral oil of API SN of better quality than a synthetic oil of API SL or API SM?

Thanks very much!

Best regards,
Leo

No, pushing the vehicle 2 metres, in neutral, will not cause damage but if you were to tow/move the vehicle for a longer distance at higher speeds then you will cause damage. When the engine isn't running the automatic transmissions oil pump won't be lubricating the internals but at a crawl, in neutral, for 2 metres it will be fine.

An important part of choosing the correct oil to use is referring to the manufacturers recommendations. The viscosity of the oil will determine if the oil can lubricate the internal mechanical parts of the engine depending on the temperature it has to operate in. Synthetic oil is chemically engineered and generally has better properties in cold start conditions and high (extreme) temperatures. The standard of the oil to use will depend on the type of vehicle it will be used in. You need to have a look at the standards, which are normally available on oil company websites online and see which one will fit your vehicle (turbocharged, sports car, catalytic converter, older car, etc.)